About Forensic Science

From the scene of crime and analytical laboratory investigation through to the courtroom, forensic science and crime investigation is both fascinating and rewarding. Our courses focus on developing practical skills used by professionals in the workplace.

Forensic science is the study and application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. You'll use a complex mixture of planning, problem solving, practical application, and verbal and written communication. You may find yourself working in areas of trace analysis, through to working with materials. You might be working at a scene, or in the laboratory, or collecting and analysing DNA, drugs, explosives, fire debris, glass, paint or fibres (to name just a few).

Field trips

Through laboratory investigations to field visits such as excavation and investigation exercises, mortuary and courtroom visits and mass disaster cases, we believe it's really important to get experience in practical skills and our courses reflect this.

Experienced practitioner staff

Our staff have practitioner experience of forensic science and crime investigation. Through their engagement in consultancy and casework, you'll have access to knowledge and expertise straight from the cutting edge of current practice in the field.

Research

Our Forensic & Investigative Research Group aims to develop world-class research in forensic science and criminal investigation. Our research enriches our teaching and knowledge and covers areas such as fire debris analysis, fingerprint evidence, profiling of drugs and wildlife forensics.

A dynamic community

As well as our staff offering careers advice and personal tutorials, our students are an active and exciting group, who have created a Crime and Forensic Investigation Society in the Students' Union. They arrange guest lecturers, study support and social events throughout the year.

Visiting the department

If you're thinking of studying one of our courses the best way to find out about us is by visiting our next Open Day. See exactly what we have to offer, have a tour of our facilities and chat to staff and students.

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